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Why Whey May Be the Way to Go After a Workout

Jennipher Walters

Most of us have probably heard or read that protein helps build muscle, especially when ingested soon after a workout. But does the kind of protein you eat matter? Is one type — say cottage cheese over a chicken breast or a protein powder— preferable over another? A new research study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition confirms that when it comes to protein and recovering from exercise, type does matter — and whey is the way to go.

See, when you work out, your muscles actually breakdown somewhat, and after you're done exercising, your body has to repair the muscles, making them stronger (and sometimes larger). Researchers found that when whey is ingested post-workout, they seem to help the body recover more quickly than other types of protein, such as casein.

Researchers say that to get the most muscle-boosting benefits, you should eat a decent amount of whey protein after a workout, such as 25 grams. Not sure how to work whey into your post-workout routine? Try this delicious fruit smoothie recipe!

Jennipher Walters is the CEO and co-founder of the healthy living websites FitBottomedGirls.com and FitBottomedMamas.com. A certified personal trainer, lifestyle and weight management coach and group exercise instructor, she also holds an MA in health journalism and regularly writes about all things fitness and wellness for various online publications.